How to Motivate Yourself to Workout

Every so often, we hit a bump in the road. Our motivation dips, and suddenly the prospect of getting out of our warm beds and into our gym kit is the last thing we want to do. Sometimes this feeling passes quickly, and sometimes it takes longer. I thought I’d share some of the things that help to re-motivate myself, and these could also be useful if you’re new to exercise and searching for some motivation to get started.

1.) Take a look at your workout schedule. Maybe you’re bored of the same old workouts and your routine could do with a makeover. Perhaps try a new class at the gym, find some new free home workouts online or buy a workout programme. For those of you who don’t know, I’m currently doing Kayla Itsines’ BBG workout plan, which is really convenient and a great time-saver with each workout being about 30 minutes. If you’re searching YouTube for workout ideas, I like The Lean Machines and The Body Coach best. Alternatively, you could be over-training, and this lack of energy and enthusiasm could be your body’s way of telling you that you need a break. Take a few days off and perhaps you’ll come back feeling more motivated.

2.) Write it in your diary. I actually write in my workouts as if they are appointments that I can’t miss. It makes them seem more like a definite plan, and non-negotiable. That way you can set aside time in the day for it and avoid making excuses like being short on time.

3.) Get social. If you struggle to push yourself on your own, book classes, or arrange to do a workout or go for a run with friends. If you’re able to, you might want to arrange for personal training sessions to get more personalised workouts and more attention on you. Once you’ve committed to something, you won’t feel like you can cancel without letting them down. Personally I prefer working out with a group of people because there’s often an element of friendly competition, which I find makes me work harder. I also like going to classes and events because I get to meet and spend time with like-minded people.

4.) Reward yourself. Give yourself little things to look forward to – whether it’s a post-workout smoothie, a lunch out or even a hot bubble bath to soothe sore muscles. I find that just the idea of a big bowl of my post-workout Overnight Zoats helps me to push through a tough early morning workout!

5.) Set goals. Sign yourself up to a race or something that will be a challenge to you. Or something smaller, like being able to do a chin-up. This will give you something to work towards and encourage you to train hard for it. You could even give yourself a long-term reward, for example buying a fitness tracker that you’ve wanted for ages when you finish your first half-marathon! Or maybe buying it beforehand so that you can track your training.

6.) Check your diet. Nutrition is the foundation for everything, so if you’re lacking motivation because you’re feeling lethargic and sluggish, re-evaluate what you’re eating. Are you getting enough protein or carbs to support your lifestyle? Are you eating too much sugar and not enough fresh fruit and veg? If not, try adding more or changing your meals slightly, and cutting out the unhealthy stuff.

7.) Sleep. Something that’s so important and yet we all seem to neglect it. It makes sense that if you get very little sleep, you’re going to wake up to your alarm feeling dreadful and unable to workout. Aim for around 8 hours a night and switch off screens at least 1 hour before you go to bed to help you sleep.

8.) Remind yourself why you’re exercising. Perhaps it’s to get stronger, feel good, to achieve a goal or maybe to lose weight. Sometimes just the thought of the feeling of accomplishment is enough to get me going. No one likes the feeling of giving up and skipping a workout. After all, the only bad workout is the one you missed!

9.) Get inspired. Social media isn’t always a negative thing – I love scrolling through Instagram (probably too much) and finding other health and fitness bloggers. If you’re feeling lazy, getting some motivation from these people might help to get you moving! Aside from the YouTubers that I’ve already mentioned, my favourite Instagrammers are Carly Rowena, Cat Meffan, Zanna Van Dijk and Alice Living (a.k.a Clean Eating Alice).

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Welcome to The Wholesome Hunter! I'm Lauren Hunter, a personal trainer and fitness blogger passionate about health. This is my little corner of the internet where I'll be sharing posts on lifestyle, fitness, nutrition and wellbeing.

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